Cruising along the historic, cobblestone avenues of Ferrara, Italy on a bicycle
In a casual and breezy mood, let's chat about Ferrara, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Emilia Romagna that's not as famous as its counterparts like Bologna, Modena, or other gastronomic powerhouses. But this compact city packs a punch with its architecture that tells tales of two distinct eras – the Renaissance and the Roman, making it an ideal choice for history buffs.
Ferrara might be a less traveled path, but it makes for a perfect day trip from Bologna or an unexpected overnight stay if you overindulge in Spritzs and miss the last train, like me! This relatively quiet city is more appealing to those interested in its history rather than the food scene, although there are plenty of chic bars and delectable eateries to sample. Thanks to a large University, Ferrara boasts a younger and more energetic crowd than nearby cities.
What to Do in Ferrara
Our peaceful sojourn in Ferrara was spent lazily exploring its attractions, stopping occasionally for alfresco gelato or prosecco in the warm embrace of June sunshine. Ferrara won't exhaust you like other bustling city day trips, making exploring the city by bicycle an ideal way to fit everything into a day trip from Bologna. Here's a brief rundown of what we experienced during our stay:
Este Castle
The shining star of Ferrara is the Este Palace, encircled by its moat and standing proudly in the city center. Descendants of the Este family ruled here between the 13th and 16th centuries, and this castle offers a glimpse into their rich history, with impressive artwork and strategic mirrors to save you from neck issues caused by gazing upwards!
Cathedral of Ferrara
The Catholic Cathedral of Ferrara mesmerizes both inside and out. I discovered during my extensive travels that the intricate and ornate details of its exterior are common in northern Italy, but this particular cathedral truly shines, thanks to its striking tower and vast leading arches.
Diamanti Palace
Although a second palace might seem like overkill, The Diamanti Palace stands out with its unique marble design, imitating the diamond-like pattern hinted at in its name. Inside, you'll find a collection of artwork spanning over six centuries, reflecting Ferrara's rich cultural heritage as a university city.
Palazzo Municipale and Piazza Savonarola
The vibrant colors of these squares invite you to settle in for a slightly pricier drink and snack than the surrounding streets. Both squares are home to the Cathedral and the Este Palace, offering fantastic opportunities for people-watching and architectural appreciation.
National Archaeological Museum
This impressive museum boasts a breathtaking Renaissance-style courtyard and holds a surprising collection of Greek artifacts behind its doors. A visit to this museum is worthwhile for the architecture alone, even if you're not particularly interested in its contents.
The City Walls
Walking the old city walls by bicycle or foot is an exhilarating experience, particularly when compared to other cities in Emilia Romagna like Bologna, where only gates remain.
Volte Street
Medieval Volte Street may not take long to explore, but it's a must-see to appreciate the difference in architecture away from the Renaissance buildings.
Ferrara Synagogue
Unfortunately, the Ferrara Synagogue is currently closed following earthquake damage. I only learned of this when I tried to visit, but I hope it will reopen soon, as it was once the largest Jewish quarter in the country and offers a significant piece of religious history.
Canale di Burano
This city canal may not rival Venice's glamour, but on a summer evening, it offers a lively university atmosphere and makes for a lovely setting to soak up the sunset. During our visit, we found a pop-up bar and restaurant here, with live music playing, adding to the urban charm.
Planning Your Visit to Ferrara
Staying in Ferrara doesn't need to break the bank. For budget-friendly options, consider Hotel Daniela, which offers clean, simple rooms a few kilometers away from the old center for around €30 a night in the offseason. For a more luxurious experience, The Alchimia, centrally located in a 15th-century building, blends historic charm with modern amenities.
Ferrara is easily accessible by bus or train from Bologna or Rimini airports. Take the train from Ferrara's central station to explore nearby cities like Brisighella, Modena, Reggio Emilia, Parma, and, of course, beautiful Bologna.
Ferrara is a relatively flat city, making it accessible for most visitors. More information can be obtained from the Ferrara or Emilia Romagna tourist boards, although information may not be as readily available as in Bologna. For a comprehensive exploration of the region, don't miss the day trips from Bologna and the guide to exploring Italy's captivating cities. “Cheers to Ferrara!"
Ferrara, though less explored, offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and food-and-drink experiences that make it an exciting addition to your travel itinerary, especially as a day trip or an overnight stay from Bologna. Beyond the Este Castle, Cathedral of Ferrara, Diamanti Palace, Palazzo Municipale, and the National Archaeological Museum, you can explore the City Walls, Volte Street, Ferrara Synagogue, and Canale di Burano, each offering a different perspective on the city's lifestyle and culture. Whether you choose to stay at Hotel Daniela for a budget-friendly option or The Alchimia for a more luxurious experience, Ferrara promises an unforgettable journey, perfect for food enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful getaway.
